the present public library began in Cardinal as a mechanics' institute in the late 1880s, occupying the upper floor in the building at the northeast corner of Lewis and John Streets. Late, in order to qualify for a provincial grant, the institute became a Public Library and we believe that it was at this time that the library and reading room were moved to a large room on the ground floor of the Harbottle residence, at the southwest corner of Dundas and Waddell Streets, in the year 1896. more... See more text